Top 10 Super-Skrull Comics Apart from Secret Invasion

Top 10 Super-Skrull Comics Apart from Secret Invasion: From the farthest reaches of the Marvel Universe and the heart of the Skrull Empire emerges one of the most complex and captivating characters – the Super-Skrull. First introduced in Fantastic Four #18 as a villain created to combat the Fantastic Four, Super-Skrull, real name Kl’rt, has since grown into a character of substantial depth, often transitioning from villain to anti-hero and back again. This article explores the best of Super-Skrull’s appearances outside the ‘Secret Invasion’ storyline, delving into his multi-faceted character arc, his struggles for his people, and his encounters with some of the most renowned Marvel characters. From devastating cosmic battles to uneasy alliances.

Fantastic Four #18

Published in September 1963, “Fantastic Four #18” introduces the Super-Skrull, a creation of the shape-shifting alien Skrulls. Desiring revenge against the Fantastic Four, the Skrulls imbue a warrior with enhanced versions of the team’s powers. Dispatched to Earth, the Super-Skrull battles the Fantastic Four, who initially struggle due to his superior abilities. Eventually, Reed Richards, or Mr. Fantastic, finds a way to disconnect the Super-Skrull from his power source on the Skrull homeworld, leaving him powerless. This issue significantly sets up the Super-Skrull as a formidable adversary, laying the groundwork for many future storylines involving this character.

Avengers #92-97 (Kree-Skrull War)

“The Kree-Skrull War” storyline from the Avengers #92-97 is an iconic Marvel comics arc. It starts with Kree hero Captain Marvel absorbing lethal radiation while rescuing his companion, Rick Jones, from the Negative Zone. The Avengers detect an alarm and find Mar-Vell using a portal to the Negative Zone, triggering a series of dramatic events involving a robot Sentry, Kree outlaw Ronan the Accuser, and the transformation of Earth scientists into cavemen. Amidst the chaos, Skrulls impersonate the Avengers, instigating the public against them, and capture some Avengers, including Mar-Vell. However, the Vision escapes to the Mansion, where original Avengers assemble to save their companions. The plot reveals alliances, betrayals, and legendary battles spanning from Earth to Skrull space, ultimately restoring the Avengers’ reputation and shaping future intergalactic relations.

Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur #28

Next up is “Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur #28” by Brandon Montclare and Natacha Bustos which is a remarkable comic issue that presents an exciting encounter between the protagonists, preteen super-genius Lunella Lafayette (Moon Girl) and her prehistoric companion Devil Dinosaur, against the formidable Super-Skrull. In this issue, Lunella’s exceptional intelligence is challenged by Super-Skrull’s vast array of powers derived from the Fantastic Four. Super-Skrull’s surprise plan adds an extra layer of danger to their encounter. This issue gracefully handles themes such as identity, friendship, and responsibility, demonstrating the triumph of intellect and courage over seemingly unbeatable foes, making it a standout in the series.

Annihilation: Super-Skrull #1-4

As part of the larger “Annihilation” event, it presents the Super-Skrull, Kl’rt, in an unexpected heroic role. Challenged by the destructive force led by Annihilus, known as the Annihilation Wave, Kl’rt collaborates with several characters, including Ronan the Accuser. This narrative remarkably showcases Super-Skrull’s superior abilities, strategic brilliance, and an unforeseen depth of character. Noteworthy for portraying the Super-Skrull as a more nuanced and empathetic character rather than a mere villain, the series adds a meaningful dimension to the overall “Annihilation” storyline, painting an engaging portrait of resilience against daunting odds.

Silver Surfer Vol 3 #25-31 (Infinity Gauntlet)

In these issues, authored by Jim Starlin and illustrated by Ron Lim, the Silver Surfer plays a crucial role in the cosmic struggle against Thanos, who has become near-omnipotent with the Infinity Gauntlet. The Super-Skrull appears in a cameo, as one of many cosmic beings summoned to battle Thanos. These issues showcase not only the Surfer’s bravery and commitment to the universe’s protection but also his strategic prowess. Despite the overwhelming power of Thanos, the Surfer never backs down, making significant sacrifices to ensure the universe’s safety. This arc is pivotal to the “Infinity Gauntlet” storyline, setting the stage for the climactic showdown against Thanos.

Incredible Hulk #92-105 (Planet Hulk)

Here, the Hulk is banished from Earth by a secretive group of superheroes known as the Illuminati, who consider him too dangerous. He lands on the distant planet Sakaar, where he’s enslaved and forced to compete as a gladiator. Super-Skrull, in a brief cameo, is one of the gladiators Hulk encounters during his trials. Through a series of bloody battles, political manoeuvrings, and unlikely alliances, Hulk becomes a beloved revolutionary figure, leading the planet’s oppressed beings in a rebellion against the tyrannical Red King. This epic journey transforms the Hulk from a rage-fueled monster into a cunning leader and warrior, making “Planet Hulk” a defining story arc for the character.

Fantastic Four Omnibus Vol. 2

The Super-Skrull plays a significant role within this collection. His character is further developed and explored, and his antagonistic relationship with the Fantastic Four, particularly the Thing, is heightened. These narratives are characterized by grand cosmic adventures, explorations of strange new worlds, battles against fearsome villains, and the deepening bonds between the Fantastic Four members. The Super-Skrull’s appearances within this collection emphasize his dangerous potential and establish him as a substantial threat to the Fantastic Four and Earth. They also reveal his unwavering loyalty to the Skrull Empire, highlighting the complexity of his character.

Annihilation: Conquest #1-3

Penned by Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning, with artwork by Tom Raney, this arc follows the cosmic superheroes of the Marvel universe as they face a new, mysterious threat in the wake of Annihilation. These issues highlight Super-Skrull’s role as an unexpected hero, fighting alongside a group of cosmic misfits that includes Star-Lord and Rocket Raccoon. After the decimation of the Skrull Empire in Annihilation, Super-Skrull is driven by revenge against Annihilus and a desire to protect the universe from further devastation. Super-Skrull’s might and strategic prowess become invaluable assets to this ragtag team of heroes. His role in these issues underscores his complexity and growth from a villain into an anti-hero, making “Annihilation: Conquest #1-3” a key part of his narrative arc.

Doctor Strange #3

In a surprising twist, Doctor Strange crosses paths with Super-Skrull, who is also stranded in the same reality. This meeting reveals an unexpected dimension to Super-Skrull’s character. Despite their antagonistic history, Super-Skrull agrees to aid Doctor Strange in his quest. The duo engages in a series of battles and trials to regain Doctor Strange’s magic. The interactions between the characters bring to light their different perspectives, motivations, and beliefs. This issue is a fascinating exploration of Super-Skrull’s character outside of his typical Fantastic Four and Kree-Skrull conflicts.

Infinity Countdown Prime #1

The issue masterfully weaves the cosmic side of the Marvel Universe, setting the stage for the hunt for the all-powerful Infinity Stones. Super-Skrull emerges as a major player in this narrative. The issue reveals that he has obtained the Time Stone, an artifact of immense power that enables its wielder to control and manipulate time. He uses it in a bid to restore the Skrull Empire to its former glory, showing the lengths he is willing to go for his people. With intriguing character moments for Super-Skrull and a central role in the wider Infinity Stones narrative, “Infinity Countdown Prime #1” is a significant and exciting addition to Super-Skrull’s comic appearances.

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